Lake County Airport (LXV): The Highest Public Airport in the United States
Lake County Airport (FAA identifier: LXV), located in Leadville, Colorado, holds the remarkable distinction of being the highest public-use airport in the United States at an elevation of 9,927 feet above sea level. This extraordinary altitude — nearly two miles above sea level — creates one of the most challenging aviation environments anywhere in the world. The airport sits in the Arkansas River headwaters valley, surrounded by Colorado's highest peaks including Mount Elbert (14,440 feet, the highest point in the Rocky Mountains) and Mount Massive (14,428 feet). Leadville itself is the highest incorporated city in the United States at 10,152 feet, and LXV serves this historic mining community's aviation needs.
Operating at LXV demands specialized performance planning that goes far beyond typical Colorado high-altitude considerations. On a standard summer afternoon, density altitude at Leadville can reach 13,000 to 14,000 feet — effectively the same operating environment as an aircraft flying near the tops of Colorado's 14ers. Piston-engine aircraft at sea-level gross weight cannot safely operate at LXV; pilots must significantly reduce payload, use approved mountain flying techniques, and depart in cool morning hours when density altitude is at its minimum. Even turbine aircraft experience measurable performance degradation. The FAA's Northwest Mountain Region and Colorado's Division of Aeronautics specifically highlight LXV as a location requiring advanced pilot preparation and mountain flying proficiency before operations.
Why is Leadville's airport the highest in the United States?
Lake County Airport sits at 9,927 feet because Leadville, Colorado, is located in a high mountain valley surrounded by the tallest peaks in the Rocky Mountains. The Arkansas River valley between the Sawatch and Mosquito Ranges is naturally high — Leadville itself is the highest incorporated city in the U.S. — making any airport here inherently at extreme elevation.
What density altitude can pilots expect at LXV?
On a warm summer afternoon with temperatures in the 60s Fahrenheit at 9,927 feet, density altitude at LXV can easily exceed 13,000 feet. This is equivalent to operating at over 13,000 feet elevation in standard atmosphere, with correspondingly severe reductions in engine power, propeller efficiency, and aerodynamic lift for piston aircraft.
Can any aircraft safely operate at LXV?
Turbine aircraft (jets and turboprops) handle LXV's altitude better than piston aircraft, though they still experience performance reductions. Lightly loaded, properly maintained piston aircraft flown by experienced mountain pilots can operate at LXV under favorable conditions. Pilots should consult aircraft performance charts, plan for early morning departures, and carry minimum necessary fuel and payload.
What is the runway length at Lake County Airport?
Lake County Airport has a single runway measuring approximately 6,400 feet. While this would be adequate at sea level, at 9,927 feet it requires careful performance computation. Pilots must ensure their aircraft can accelerate to rotation speed and achieve positive climb within the runway distance available in the extreme high-altitude conditions.
Is LXV an interesting destination for aviation tourism?
Yes. Experienced mountain pilots consider flying to LXV a genuine aviation achievement given its extreme elevation. Leadville is also a historic mining town with excellent tourism offerings including the National Mining Hall of Fame, the historic Tabor Opera House, and access to trailheads for Colorado's highest peaks. It is a rewarding destination for pilots with appropriate mountain flying experience.
Lake County Airport Contact Information
Address, Phone Number, and Hours for an Airports in Leadville, Colorado.
| Name | Lake County Airport |
| Address | 915 County Road 23, Leadville CO 80461 Map |
| Phone | (719) 486-0307 |
| Website | |
| Hours |
Map of Lake County Airport
Visiting Leadville and Lake County Airport
Lake County Airport serves Leadville, the highest city in the United States, located in a stunning mountain valley at 10,152 feet. The airport has limited on-field services compared to larger Colorado GA airports; pilots should pre-plan fuel and any required aircraft servicing. Leadville itself is a short drive from the airport and offers a charming Victorian-era downtown with restaurants, shops, and the National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum. Accommodations are available in town, though amenities are those of a small historic mountain community rather than a resort destination.
Leadville's location near Mount Elbert, Mount Massive, and the Tennessee Pass corridor makes it a superb base for high-altitude hiking and wilderness exploration. The airport sits within easy reach of the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness and the Continental Divide, with numerous 14er trailheads accessible by car from town. Pilots visiting Leadville for the first time are encouraged to research LXV's operational environment thoroughly, connect with experienced mountain flying resources, and plan departures for early morning hours when cool temperatures reduce density altitude to its daily minimum — maximizing available aircraft performance for the demanding departure from America's highest public airport.